Electronic counter and storage apparatus

ABSTRACT

Apparatus for counting, displaying and storing numerical data such as numbers of discrete items and linear distances. The data relating in various items and distances can be stored in respective memory locations for subsequent readout. The apparatus can be preset to count forwardly from a predetermined number and can provide the data input for other data handling equipment, such as a computer.

United States Patent Welch et a].

[ 1 Aug. 8, 1972 [54] ELECTRONIC COUNTER AND STORAGE APPARATUS [72] Inventors: Robert H. Welch; Kenneth D. Boyce,

both of Mountain View, Calif.

[73] Assignee: Diversified Electronics Co., Inc.,

Sunnyvale, Calif.

22 Filed: Jan. 21,1969

21 Appl.No.:792,392

[52] US. Cl. "235/92 EA, 235/92 R, 235/92 DN [51] Int. Cl. ..H03k 21/18 [58] Field of Search ..235/92, 92 AC, 92 DN;

[56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 3,230,358 1/1966 Davis et a1. ..235/92 U 3,274,832 9/1966 Hamilton ..235/92 U 3,393,299 7/1968 Baker... "235/92 3,412,241 11/1968 Spence et a1 ..235/92 X 3,328,763 6/1967 Rathbun et a1. ..340/172.5 3,380,031 4/1968 Clayton et a1. ..340/172.5 3,391,391 7/1968 Simpson ..340/172.5 3,413,610 11/1968 Botjer et a1. ..340/l72.5 3,500,338 3/1970 Cuccio et a1 ..340/172.5

Primary Examiner-Maynard R. Wilbur Assistant Examiner-Joseph M. Thesz, Jr. Attorney-Townsend and Townsend [57] ABSTRACT Apparatus for counting, displaying and storing numerical data such as numbers of discrete items and linear distances. The data relating in various items and distances can be stored in respective memory locations for subsequent readout. The apparatus can be preset to count forwardly from a predetermined number and can provide the data input for other data handling equipment, such as a computer.

15 Claims, 3 Drawing Figures INTERFACE 72 PATIENTEDAUG 8 I972 SHEET 1 [IF 2 22 20 F|G.2 DISPLAY i R 26 LY DECODER I8 I V MEMORY INPUT SCA/LER COUt/JTER I CONTROL 1 MEMORY.

3 INVENTORS 24 l2 l4 l6 ROBERT H. WELCH KENNETH n. BOYCE ATTORNEYS ELECTRONIC COUNTER AND STORAGE APPARATUS This invention relates to electronic counters and, more particularly, to apparatus for counting, displaying and storing numbers representing quantities of discrete items or linear distances.

While the present invention is suitablefor a number of different uses, it is especially'suitable for use in the construction industry where cost estimates are to be made before actual purchase of construction materials where such estimatesare'to be based :upon the construction requirements .set forth in construction drawings. The apparatus of the inventionis usable for counting numbers of articles suchas doors, electrical outlets, plumbing fixtures and the like, as well as for measuring distances, suchas the number of board feet of lumber required to construct walls, floorsandthe like.

While some attempts havebeen made toprovide apparatus for use in the foregoing manner, such attempts generally have not beenv satisfactory for a number of reasons. One of the most objectionable features of con ventional devices used for thispurpose is the doubtful reliability of their individual components-which components are electromechanical in nature so as to present problems due to inertia effects and wear of their moving parts. Inertia effects relating to electromechanical counters used in these devices also gives rise to inaccuracies in the counting of discrete items and in the measuring of linear distances. "Such inaccuracies can .oftentimes result in relatively large-errors in cost estimates, especially where the inaccuracies are multiplied when the counting results are used for cost estimating of multiple-building construction projects.

Another disadvantage of conventional devices of this type is the limited capacity for the-storingof numbers counted thereby-Also, the relatively :largesizes and weights of their individual componentsrequire a relatively large and bulky housing to containallof the parts. The overall weight of a device 'of this type limits the way it can be moved from one work area to another or at least is a source of inconvenience to the user of the device whose work requires that the device be frequently used atdifferent places. v

The present invention provides an improved apparatus for counting and storage of'numerical data wherein the components of I the apparatus are completely electronic in nature so as to eliminate all moving parts and thereby avoid the problems of inaccuracy encountered by conventional devices which utilize electromechanical components. Moreover, the apparatus can be formed from solid state electronic components of extremely high reliability to provide a product which is virtually trouble-free, wherebymaintenance problems are substantially eliminated yet the apparatus can be constructed by using numerous costsaving features, such .as printed circuit boards and quick disconnect modular units providing the various systems therefor. Also, the relatively small sizes of the electronic components of the apparatus permits the latter to be of a relatively small size and lightweight in construction for desk top operation yet the apparatus is sufiiciently rugged so that it can withstand rough handlin g when it is moved from one work area to another.

The apparatus, in utilizing an electronic memory, has a relatively large storage capacity so as to render it especially suitable for large building projects having many different types of discrete items or linear distances to be counted and stored. An important feature of the apparatus is its capability of presetting to a desired number in its counter system. Thus, counting of numbers forwardly of the preset number can be made to avoid having to mentally or otherwise add the preset number and the counted number at the end of a countmg operation.

The primary object of this invention is, therefore, to provide an improved counting, display and storage apparatus for handling numerical data wherein the apparatus is formed from electronic components of extremely high reliability so as to provide a product which substantially eliminates problems of inaccuracy and maintenance which are inherent in the construction and operation of conventional devices used for this purpose.

Another object of this invention is to provide apparatus of the type described wherein the counting, display and storage of numerical data is accomplished with components which are completely electronic in nature so that the response times of the components will be extremely small and no reliance need be made component response times, is compatible with other data handlingequipment, such as high-speed computers or the like, to thus render the apparatus suitable for use as an input means for such equipment.

Another object of this invention is to provide apspara'tus of the type described wherein a predetermined number canbe preset into the apparatus to serve as the starting point for a counting operation to thereby avoid having to countup to the number in the normal fashion before the desired counting operation commences.

Still another object of this invention is to provide apparatus for electronically counting, displaying and storing numerical data wherein the electronic components of the apparatus are relatively small in size and weight .to permit the apparatus itself to be suitable for portable, table top operation and to allow for cost-saving modular construction techniques to be used in producing the apparatus.

Other objects of this invention will become apparent as the following specification progresses, reference being had to the accompanying drawing for an illustration of an embodiment of the invention. In the drawings:

'FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the front of a housing containing the apparatus of the present invention;

"FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the invention in a generalized form; and

FIG. 3 is another block diagram of the invention showing the various systems thereof in greater detail.

The apparatus of the present invention is broadly denoted by the numeral 10 and includes a number of basic systems shown in block from in FIG. 2. Such systems include a sealer system 12, a counter 14, a

memory control system 16, a memory 18 and an elecof numerical data in a manner to be described. All of the systems are electrically actuated and power source is common to all of the other systems.

The purpose of apparatus 10 is to count, store and display linear and discrete-item information, such as length and numbers of articles when such information is sensed by a suitable pick up and directed into the apparatus. The linear information can, for instance, be the lengths of various lines on a construction drawing and the discrete-item information can be the number of articles on the drawing which are of a given type, such as electrical outlets, doors and the like. In a broad sense, the apparatus operates when information is directed by a suitable input means 24 to the scaler system 12 from whence it is counted by counter 14 and directed through a decoder 26 to display 22 whereby the information is visually observed. From the display, the information can be stored in the memory and later read out therefrom and onto the display once again.

The apparatus is shown in greater detail in FIG. 3, wherein the input means 24 is shown as including a count probe 28 for use in counting the number of discrete items and a length probe 30 for use in measuring distance. Only one probe is used at any given time and each probe can be used to provide a signal input to scaler system 12. The two probes can be of any suitable construction but, for purposes of illustration, probe 28 is a ball point pen having an electrical switch coupled to it so that the switch is actuated each time the point of the pen is depressed. The switch, when actuated, closes an electrical circuit causing a signal to be generated which represents a single count or bit to be fed into the scaler system for subsequent display or storage.

The length probe 30 is, for example, a device having a wheel which rolls over a surface, the wheel having means for passing a light beam through the sides of the wheel a number of times for each revolution of the wheel. Each time the light beam passes through the wheel, a switch is actuated to complete a circuit and thereby to generate a signal which represents a predetermined count. The counts generated by probe 30 are proportional to the distance on the surface over which the wheel travels and the apparatus can be calibrated so that the display which represents such distance will be in terms of the usual dimensional parameters.

Each of the two probes provides a pulse input to the scaler system and these pulses are counted by counter 14 and then displayed in display 22 following which they can be stored in memory 18 for subsequent readout when needed. As will hereinafter be described, memory 18 has a number of memory banks, each bank being independent of the other banks and capable of storing a respective number. Thus, each probe can be used to count discrete items or linear distances of a first type and the information from this step can be stored in one memory bank of memory 18. Then, the probe can be used to count items or distances of another type and the information obtained from this step can be stored in another memory bank. These steps can be performed in a minimum of time and are limited essentially only by the time required to physically move the probe over the surface from which the information is to be taken.

The scaler system includes a scale and probe selector unit 32 which, for purposes of illustration, comprises a rotary switch pemtitting selective use of either of the probes and provides selection of the scale factor to be used with a particular probe. If the count probe is to be used, each pulse input generated by the actuation of the probe switch can be used to count a single bit or a single pulse can be multiplied to provide, for instance, 2, 3, 4 or 5 pulses to the input of counter 14. It may be desirable to multiply the incoming signal by a given factor such as when counting the number of electrical outlets for each of several buildings. The resulting number will indicate the total number of outlets of all of the buildings to avoid having to mentally or otherwise compute such total number after the number for each building has been determined.

The signal from selector input 32 is fed to a one-shot multivibrator 33 which enables a gate 35, the latter serving to start a clock 34 to which is coupled a comparator 36. The clock provides pulses to counter 14 and the comparator 36. When the number of signal pulses total the desired count, as selected by unit 32, comparator 36 stops the clock and no further pulses are directed to the counter until the next signal pulse is generated by the actuation of a probe switch.

As an example of the operation of the clock, assume that unit 32 is set to multiply each input pulse by 4. Thus, clock 34 will count four pulses. The comparator operates to note the number of output pulses from the clock and will stop the operation of the clock after the four pulses have been generated. In this example, for a single input pulse from count probe 28, there will be four signal pulses directed to counter 14.

Unit 32 can also be set to a desired scale factor to actuate clock 34 for input pulses generated by the actuation of the switch associated with probe 30. For instance, it may be desirable to have scale factors of l/ 32, 1/16, Va and A. These factors represent the length in inches on a drawing sensed by probe 30 and which are equated to 1 foot on a full model of the building or article depicted on the drawing.

Clock 34 and comparator 36 can be of any suitable construction. Preferably, they are formed of integrated circuit components of relatively small size and high reliability to minimize space requirements and maintenance problems.

The apparatus can be contained in a housing 38 of the type shown in FIG. 1 and the rotary switch of selector unit 32 can be operated by a knob 40 adjacent to the count probe scale 42 and the length probe scale 44 on the front panel 46 of housing 38. Knob 40 is below display 22 which preferably comprises a number of commercially available display tubes 48, each of which can display by neon light any number from 0 to 9 Display 22 is shown with four tubes 48; thus, the apparatus can count to 9999 An overrange light 50 is provided for display 22 and indicates when the count has gone beyond 9999.

Counter 14 includes a counter unit 52 for each display tube 48, respectively. Thus, there are four counter units 52 in the illustrated embodiment of the apparatus. The counters are coupled to each other and represent, respectively, the units, tenths, hundredths and thousandths digits to be counted and displayed by the apparatus. Thus, each tube 48 will represent the digit corresponding to the counter unit coupled therewith. Counter units 52 are coupled to a reset switch 54 having a push button 55 mounted on front panel 46, whereby all counter units 52 can simultaneously be reset to zero when switch 54 is actuated.

Counter 14 may be of any suitable construction. For purposes of illustration, each counter unit 52 includes decimal counters with BCD outputs to minimize the logic requirements of memory 18. Thus, for a 4-digit number, only 16 output leads from the counter to the memory control are required as contrasted with 40 output leads required if the decimal system is used.

The output of each counter unit 52 is coupled to a decoder unit 56, units 56 changingthe BCD output of the corresponding counter unit 52 to a decimal output for actuating the corresponding display tube 48. Each display tube is directly connected through a decoder unit 56 to the corresponding counter unit 52 so that a number counted by the counter can bedirectly and immediately displayed on its display tube 48.

The output of each counter unit 52 is coupled through memory control 16 to memory 18, the latter including a number of memory banks 58, four of which are shown to provide storage for a 4-digit number. Each memory bank 58 is used to store one digit of a particular number to which the counter has previously counted. Since there are four counter units 52,there are four memory banks 58. Each memory bank includes a plurality of memory devices for storing binary information, there being the same number of memory devices in each memory bank. Thus, one set of four memory devices in the four memory banks can be used to store a particular number while the other sets of four memory devices are used to store other numbers. In this way, memory 18 can be used to store numbers of discrete items and linear distances of different types. Memory control 16 operates to position a particular set of memory devices in a condition to receive signal levels from counter 14, whichsignal levels represent the number to be stored in the set.

Each memory device can be of any suitable construc tion but, for purposes of illustration, it includes a plurality of flip-flops. Each flip-flop will represent a particular storage location for a digit of the BCD output of the counter unit 52 corresponding thereto. For instance, there may be 96 flip-flops in each memory bank 58 and this means that the corresponding memory bank 58 is capable of storing 24 different four-digit numbers, each digit being comprised of four BCD bits. Thus, the number of flip-flops in each bank 58 determines the storage capacity of memory 18. While only four flipflops have been shown in each memory bank 58, it is clear that additional flip-flops can be utilized if the capacity of the memory is to be greater.

The purpose of memory control 16 is to actuate the memory in a manner such that the proper set of memory devices are in condition for the read-in of information from the counter or for the readout of information to the counter. Memory control 16 includes a clock, a comparator and a selector switch coupled in a manner such that, when the switch is actuated, the clock is operated. The operation of the clock upsets the balance of the comparator and the clock continues to run until the comparator inhibits the clock operation due to a detected balance between the number selected by the switch and the output of the comparator. The selector switch has a number of operative locations corresponding to the number of memory devices in each memory bank 58. The selected switch is operated by a pair of thumb wheels 60 on the front panel of housing 38 and associated with the selector switch is an enter switch having a push button 62 (FIG. 1) which, when actuated, causes the outputs of the counter units to be read into the set of memory devices in the four memory banks 58 previously selected by the actuation of the selector switch. For purposes of illustration, each memory bank comprises an end-around shift register made up of a plurality of flip-flops equal in number to the desired number of different types of items to be stored in the memory.

Memory control 16 further includes a readout switch having a push button 64 for actuation thereof. This switch, when actuated, permits readout of information stored in the set of memory devices corresponding to the setting of the selector switch of memory control 16. The information read out from the memory is applied directly to the inputs of decoder units 56 which immediately direct such information to the display tubes for display thereby in decimal form. By manipulating the selector switch of the memory control, readout of information from variouslocations in the memory can be accomplished.

Memory control 16 operates further to provide an automatic reset of counter units 52 to zero when a number has been entered into the memory. Such action also provides a zero reading on the display tubes for psychological reasons to assure the user of the apparatus that the number has been entered into the memory. Memory control 16 also provides the necessary buffering and control logic for proper selection and operation of memory 18.

Means is also provided to set up a predetermined count on display 22 so as to by-pass scaler system 12. This is accomplished by a selector switch unit 66 (FIG. 3) coupled directly to the signal outputs of counter units 52. A predetermined count is manually set up in selector switch 66 by the use of four thumb wheels 68 shown on frontpanel 46-of FIG. 2. Each thumb wheel 68 can be rotated to place a predetermined number in registry with an opening in front panel 46. Any number from 1 to *9999 can be preset into counter 14.

To enter the preset number in the display, i.e., to place the number in binary form at the outputs of counter units 52, a preset enter switch is provided. This switch has a push button 70 adjacent to push button 56 by means of which the enter switch can be actuated. When the enter switch is .actuated, it causes a transfer of the count set up in selector switch 66 to the outputs of counter units 52 by the principle known by those skilled in the art as collector grabbing wherein the signal outputs of counter units 52, if they do not agree with the binary form of the preset number in selector switch 66, are changed by changing the operative states of the counter units themselves. Thus, such counter units will then have output signals defining the preset number in binary form and the preset number will be immediately rendered observable in decimal form on display tubes 48. The count can also be immediately transferred to memory 18 by actuating the enter switch for the memory as described above.

A further feature of the apparatus is the provision of interface structure 72 coupled to the outputs of counter units 52 whereby such outputs can be coupled to a computer or the like to render apparatus 10 usable as an input for other data handling equipment. Structure 72 may include one or more output terminals for the output of each counter unit 52.

In operation, apparatus 10 will be used either for counting numbers of discrete items with probe 28 or for measuring distances with probe 30. The apparatus will first be described with respect to probe 28. To use this probe, the selector switch of selector unit 32 will first be set to the proper scale factor on scale 42 before the count is commenced.

After the proper probe and scale factor selection have been made, the apparatus is ready to be used to count numbers of specific items. The count probe is then depressed a number of times and each time it is depressed, the switch carried thereby is actuated. This switch actuation generates a signal pulse for each count made by probe 28 and this pulse is multiplied by the present scale factor. This multiplication is effected by the operation of clock 34 and comparator 36 and the clock output is then directed to the input of counter 14 immediately. The various counter units 52 will count the number of signal pulses from clock 34 and each counter unit will have a signal output in binary form representing a number from O to 9 The outputs of counter units 52 will immediately be decoded by decoder units 56 and displayed in decimal form on display tubes 48.

When it is desired to transfer the outputs of the coun ters to memory 18, the proper memory location is first set up by manipulating thumb wheel 60 to preset the selector switch of memory control 16 to, in turn, advance the memory devices of memory banks 58 to place the memory devices corresponding to the preset location in condition to receive signals from respective counter units 52. Then, the enter switch for the memory is actuated by depressing push button 62, whereupon the outputs of the counter units are transferred to the memory devices corresponding to the preset memory location. This action returns display tubes 48 to zero so that they can receive another count from counter 14. The count stored in memory 18 can be read out therefrom and returned to the display at any time by depressing push button 64 which will actuate a readout switch. The proper memory location will first have to be set up by memory control 16 so as to be able to read out the information at that particular locatron.

After the count has been transferred to the memory, the count probe can be used to count other items and the new count will appear on display 22. This new count can be transferred to another location of the memory by first changing the setting of the selector switch of memory control 16 to a new number, whereupon the enter switch of memory control 16 is actuated to transfer the counts to the new preset memory locatron.

The foregoing operation can continue until several or all of the memory banks 58 have been filled. At any time, each memory bank can be emptied and the information put back into display 22 for a direct reading of the count.

it may be desired to set up a predetermined count in the display so as to permit counting forwardly from such predetemiined count. This is achieved by manipulating thumb wheels 68 to actuate selector switch 66. The preset number count is transferred to the outputs of counter units 52 and thereby to display 22 when the preset enter switch is actuated by depressing push button 70. After this occurs, count probe 28 can be manipulated to count additional numbers and these numbers will be added to the preset number set up in the display. Such additional count at any time may be transferred to a particular memory location in the manner described above.

The apparatus can be used with other data handling equipment, such as a computer or the like, by coupling interface structure 72 to the equipment for directing the outputs of counter units 52 to the main input of the equipment. When this occurs, the apparatus of the invention will define the input portion of the equipment by means of which numerical calculations can be made.

The foregoing description of the operation has been made with respect to count probe 28. Distance measuring probe 30 can be used in substantially the same way. Initially, the user of the apparatus will manipulate the selector switch of selector input 32 so that not only will the signal pulses generated by the actuation of probe 30 be gated that operate clock 34, but also the proper scale factor will be selected in accordance with the scale factor used with the surface segment whose distance is to be measured with the probe. The signal generated by the actuation of the probe will be in pulse form to operate the clock and the output of the clock will go to the input of counter 14, following which the counter will count to the proper number and this number will be displayed on display tubes 48. The number can then be read into the memory at a selected location thereof and later be read out from the memory and returned to the display tubes in decimal form. The displayed information can be such as to provide distances on a full scale model of the object having a linear parameter on a reduced scale defined by the surface segment over which probe 30 moves.

What is claimed is:

1. Apparatus for counting, displaying and storing numerical data comprising: a counter having an input means and an output means and being capable of counting when signal pulses representing a number are received at the input means thereof, said counter having an output signal at said output means thereof when the counter has counted to a number; means coupled with said input means for directing electronic signal pulses thereto; a display unit coupled with said output means and being operable in response to an output signal thereon for displaying the number to which the counter has counted; 21 memory unit for receiving an electronic signal and for storing the numerical data represented thereby; means connecting the memory unit with said output means of the counter, said connecting means including control structure selectively operable to permit the memory unit to receive and store a signal from said output means and to permit the readout of data stored in said memory unit to said output means.

2. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein said memory unit has a plurality of memory devices defining respective storage locations therefor, said control structure including means for selectively placing a particular memory device in condition for receiving a signal from said output means.

3. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein said counter has means placing said output signal thereof in binary form, and wherein is included a decoder interconnecting said display unit and said output means and being operable for changing the binary form of said output signal to a decimal form.

4. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein said display unit includes a number of display tubes, said counter including an electronically actuated counter unit for each display tube, respectively.

5. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the means for providing a signal input comprises an actuable probe and a scaler system for generating an input signal each time the probe is actuated, said scaler system having means for multiplying said input signal by a multiplying factor to provide a series of said signal pulses.

6. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein is included manually actuated means coupled with said output means for applying an output signal thereto to provide a preset count therefor.

7. Apparatus for handling numerical data comprising: a memory having a number of memory devices, each memory device having means for receiving an electronic signal when the memory device is in an operative condition, each memory device providing a storage location for data represented by a signal received thereby and permitting read-in and readout of data when the memory device is in said operative condition; means coupled with said memory for selectively placing a memory device in said operative condition, said placing means including control structure for controlling the read-in and readout of data with respect thereto; a counter having input means for receiving a plurality of signal pulses representing a number to be counted and output means providing an output signal corresponding to the number counted thereby, said control structure coupling the output means of said counter to a memory device in said operative condition and being selectively operable to permit data represented by a signal at said output means to be read into and be stored by a memory device in said operative condition and to permit the readout of data stored in a memory device to said output means when the lastmentioned memory device is in said operative condition; means coupled with said input means of said counter for directing signal pulses thereto; and means coupled with said output means for applying an output signal thereto to thereby provide a preset count therefor.

8. Apparatus as set forth in claim 7, wherein said signal applying means includes a selector switch for manually selecting a number to be preset at said output means.

9. Apparatus as set forth in claim 7, wherein is included means coupled with said output means and being operable in response to an output signal thereon for providing a removable, visually observable display of the number represented by the signal at said output means, and means coupled to said counter to provide a visually observable indicator therefor with the indicator being operable to indicate when the counter has counted beyond a predetermined number.

10. Apparatus for handling numerical data comprising: a memory having a number of memory devices, each memory device having means for receiving an electronic signal when the memory device is in a predetennined operative condition, each memory device providing a storage location for data represented by a signal received thereby and permitting read-in and readout of data when the memory device is in said operative condition; means coupled with said memory for selectively placing a memory device in said condition, said placing means including control structure for controlling the read-in and readout of data with respect to a memory device in said condition; a counter having input means for receiving a plurality of signal pulses representing a number to be counted and output means providing an output signal corresponding to the number counted thereby; means coupling the output means of said counter to said control structure, the latter being selectively operable to permit a signal at said output means to be directed to a memory device in said operative condition for read-in of data thereto and to permit a signal to be directed to said output means when data is read out from a memory device in means coupled with the input means of said counter for directing signal pulses thereto; and means coupled with said output means and operable in response to an output signal thereon for providing a removable display of the number counted thereby.

11. Apparatus as set forth in claim 10, wherein said memory is capable of being clocked to place a memory device in said operative condition, said control structure including actuatable means for selectively clocking said memory, and a manually actuated switch for electrically connecting said output means to a memory device when the latter is in said operative condition.

12. Apparatus for handling numerical data comprising: a memory having a plurality of memory banks capable of storing data representing a number, each memory bank having a number of memory devices, there being a memory bank for each digit of a number represented by data stored in the memory, there being a memory device in each memory bank corresponding to a memory device in each of the other memory banks, whereby the memory banks present a number of sets of corresponding memory devices, said memory being capable of receiving signals and storing the data represented thereby when a set of corresponding memory devices is in an operative, signal-receiving condition; means coupled with said memory for selectively placing one of said sets in said condition, said placing means including control structure for controlling the read-in and readout of data with respect to a set of corresponding memory devices in said condition; a counter having a number of counter units, there being a counter unit for each memory bank, respectively, each counter unit having an input means for receiving input signal pulses representing a digit of a number to be counted by the counter unit and an output means for providing a signal representing the digit to which the counter unit has counted; means connecting each counter unit to said control structure, the latter being selective operable to permit a signal at the output means of each counter unit to be directed to and stored by a respective memory device of a set of memory devices in said operative condition and to permit a signal to be directed to the output means of each counter unit when data is read out the respective memory device of a set of memory devices in said operative condition; means coupled with said output means for each counter unit and operable in response to an output signal thereon for displaying the digit of the number to which the counter unit has counted; and means coupled with said input means for directing input signal pulses thereto.

13. Apparatus as set forth in claim 12, wherein the output means of each counter unit provides a signal in binary form, each memory device including structure for receiving and storing the signal in binary form, said display including structure for displaying a digit in decimal form, and wherein is included a decoder unit between the output means of each counter unit, respectively, and the corresponding display means for changing the signal at the output means from binary form to decimal form.

14. Apparatus as set forth in claim 12, wherein said means coupled with said input means includes a pair of count input probes, and switch means for selectively placing a probe in electrical contact with said input means.

15. Apparatus for handling numerical data comprising: a memory having a number of memory devices,

each memory device having means for receiving an electronic signal when the memory device is in a predetermined operative condition, each memory device providing a storage location for data represented by a signal received thereby and permitting read-in and readout of data when the memory device is in said operative condition; means coupled with said memory for selectively placing a memory device in said condition, said placing means including control structure for controlling the read-in and readout of data with respect thereto; a counter having input means for receiving a plurality of signal pulses representing a number to be counted and output means providing an output signal corresponding to the number counted thereby, said control structure coupling the output means of said counter to a memory device in said operative condition and being selectively operable to permit a signal at said output means to be directed to a memory device in said operative condition for read-in of data thereto and to permit a signal to be directed to said output means when data is read out from a memory device in said operative condition; means coupled with the input means of said counter for directing signal pulses thereto; and means coupled with said output means for connecting the same to data handling equipment. 

1. Apparatus for counting, displaying and storing numerical data comprising: a counter having an input means and an output means and being capable of counting when signal pulses representing a number are received at the input means thereof, said counter having an output signal at said output means thereof when the counter has counted to a number; means coupled with said input means for directing electronic signal pulses thereto; a display unit coupled with said output means and being operable in response to an output signal thereon for displaying the number to which the counter has counted; a memory unit for receiving an electronic signal and for storing the numerical data represented thereby; means connecting the memory unit with said output means of the counter, said connecting means including control structure selectively operable to permit the memory unit to receive and store a signal from said output means and to permit the readout of data stored in said memory unit to said output means.
 2. Apparatus as set forth in Claim 1, wherein said memory unit has a plurality of memory devices defining respective storage locations therefor, said control structure including means for selectively placing a particular memory device in condition for receiving a signal from said output means.
 3. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein said counter has means placing said output signal thereof in binary form, and wherein is included a decoder inter-connecting said display unit and said output means and being operable for changing the binary form of said output signal to a decimal form.
 4. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein said display unit includes a number of display tubes, said counter including an electronically actuated counter unit for each display tube, respectively.
 5. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the means for providing a signal input comprises an actuable probe and a scaler system for generating an input signal each time the probe is actuated, said scaler system having means for multiplying said input signal by a multiplying factor to provide a series of said signal pulses.
 6. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein is included manually actuated means coupled with said output means for applying an output signal thereto to provide a preset count therefor.
 7. Apparatus for handling numerical data comprising: a memory having a number of memory devices, each memory device having means for receiving an electronic signal when the memory device is in an operative condition, each memory device providing a storage location for data represented by a signal received thereby and permitting read-in and readout of data when the memory device is in said operative condition; means coupled with said memory for selectively placing a memory device in said operative condition, said placing means including control structure for controlling the read-in and readout of data with respect thereto; a counter having input means for receiving a plurality of signal pulses representing a number to be counted and output means providing an output signal corresponding to the number counted thereby, said control structure coupling the output means of said counter to a memory device in said operative condition and being selectively operable to permit data represented by a signal at said output means to be read into and be stored by a memory device in said operative condition and to permit the readout of data stored in a memory device to said output means when the last-mentioned memory device is in said operative condition; means coupled with said input means of said counter for directing signal pulses thereto; and means coupled with said output means for applying an output signal thereto to thereby provide a preset count therefor.
 8. Apparatus as set forth in claim 7, wherein said signal applying means includes a selector switch for manually selecting a number to be preset at said output means.
 9. Apparatus as set forth in claim 7, wherein is included means coupled with said output means and being operable in response to an output signal thereon for providing a removable, visually observable display of the number represented by the signal at said output means, and means coupled to said counter to provide a visually observable indicator therefor with the indicator being operable to indicate when the counter has counted beyond a predetermined number.
 10. Apparatus for handling numerical data comprising: a memory having a number of memory devices, each memory device having means for receiving an electronic signal when the memory device is in a predetermined operative condition, each memory device providing a storage location for data represented by a signal received thereby and permitting read-in and readout of data when the memory device is in said operative condition; means coupled with said memory for selectively placing a memory device in said condition, said placing means including control structure for controlling the read-in and readout of data with respect to a memory devicE in said condition; a counter having input means for receiving a plurality of signal pulses representing a number to be counted and output means providing an output signal corresponding to the number counted thereby; means coupling the output means of said counter to said control structure, the latter being selectively operable to permit a signal at said output means to be directed to a memory device in said operative condition for read-in of data thereto and to permit a signal to be directed to said output means when data is read out from a memory device in means coupled with the input means of said counter for directing signal pulses thereto; and means coupled with said output means and operable in response to an output signal thereon for providing a removable display of the number counted thereby.
 11. Apparatus as set forth in claim 10, wherein said memory is capable of being clocked to place a memory device in said operative condition, said control structure including actuatable means for selectively clocking said memory, and a manually actuated switch for electrically connecting said output means to a memory device when the latter is in said operative condition.
 12. Apparatus for handling numerical data comprising: a memory having a plurality of memory banks capable of storing data representing a number, each memory bank having a number of memory devices, there being a memory bank for each digit of a number represented by data stored in the memory, there being a memory device in each memory bank corresponding to a memory device in each of the other memory banks, whereby the memory banks present a number of sets of corresponding memory devices, said memory being capable of receiving signals and storing the data represented thereby when a set of corresponding memory devices is in an operative, signal-receiving condition; means coupled with said memory for selectively placing one of said sets in said condition, said placing means including control structure for controlling the read-in and readout of data with respect to a set of corresponding memory devices in said condition; a counter having a number of counter units, there being a counter unit for each memory bank, respectively, each counter unit having an input means for receiving input signal pulses representing a digit of a number to be counted by the counter unit and an output means for providing a signal representing the digit to which the counter unit has counted; means connecting each counter unit to said control structure, the latter being selective operable to permit a signal at the output means of each counter unit to be directed to and stored by a respective memory device of a set of memory devices in said operative condition and to permit a signal to be directed to the output means of each counter unit when data is read out the respective memory device of a set of memory devices in said operative condition; means coupled with said output means for each counter unit and operable in response to an output signal thereon for displaying the digit of the number to which the counter unit has counted; and means coupled with said input means for directing input signal pulses thereto.
 13. Apparatus as set forth in claim 12, wherein the output means of each counter unit provides a signal in binary form, each memory device including structure for receiving and storing the signal in binary form, said display including structure for displaying a digit in decimal form, and wherein is included a decoder unit between the output means of each counter unit, respectively, and the corresponding display means for changing the signal at the output means from binary form to decimal form.
 14. Apparatus as set forth in claim 12, wherein said means coupled with said input means includes a pair of count input probes, and switch means for selectively placing a probe in electrical contact with said input means.
 15. Apparatus for handling numerical data comprising: a memory having a number of memory devices, each memOry device having means for receiving an electronic signal when the memory device is in a predetermined operative condition, each memory device providing a storage location for data represented by a signal received thereby and permitting read-in and readout of data when the memory device is in said operative condition; means coupled with said memory for selectively placing a memory device in said condition, said placing means including control structure for controlling the read-in and readout of data with respect thereto; a counter having input means for receiving a plurality of signal pulses representing a number to be counted and output means providing an output signal corresponding to the number counted thereby, said control structure coupling the output means of said counter to a memory device in said operative condition and being selectively operable to permit a signal at said output means to be directed to a memory device in said operative condition for read-in of data thereto and to permit a signal to be directed to said output means when data is read out from a memory device in said operative condition; means coupled with the input means of said counter for directing signal pulses thereto; and means coupled with said output means for connecting the same to data handling equipment. 